Deep Dive with Shawn

Send us a textWe all, conservatives and progressives, are liberals. And, we are living liberal lives. Dr. Alexandre Lefebvre, a renowned professor of politics and philosophy, and author of the book Liberalism as a Way of Life, joins the pod to explain the complex and often misunderstood concept of liberalism, and how liberalism is more than just a political label—it is a framework built on the values of individual freedom, equality, and fairness that influences our daily interactions and societal norms. We also discuss the ideological rifts that characterize modern political coalitions, and the critical role of internal criticism in achieving a more equitable society and delves into the philosophical challenges that echo Kierkegaard's critique of Christendom, placing a spotlight on contemporary issues of inequality and moral inconsistency.Finally, we examine how liberalism might be under threat in the United States - and globally. We talk about the influence of reality TV and social media on societal empathy and How these elements contribute to a politics of resentment and reduced empathy. We dig into the ways in which liberalism is reflected in cultural shifts and language evolution. And, we consider whether liberalism, with its deeply ingrained nature, could be a subconscious safeguard of our way of life - and where it might be vulnerable. -------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textIt's the end of the year, and that means our annual State of the Union episode is here! In this episode, I'm joined by judicial scholar Dr. Sara Benesh, historian and expert on the fall of Rome, Dr. Edward Watts, and scholar of political violence, Dr. James Hawdon. We draw striking parallels between Rome's transition from a republic to an autocracy and the current state of American politics, and we discuss the erosion of institutional integrity, the rise of political violence, and the unsettling warning sign found in events like the January 6th Capitol attack. We question whether America's democratic foundations might be at risk of crumbling under similar pressures of corruption and strongman politics.As Donald Trump makes his return to the presidency, the dynamics of the U.S. Supreme Court face intense scrutiny. So, we discuss how the current Court might behave under a second Trump presidency, and how the Court's legitimacy may further erode amidst mounting partisan divides. Historical unpredictability among justices is a focal point, as we examine how their decisions could serve as both checks on presidential power and potential avenues for self-aggrandizement. The stakes are raised by provocative statements from Trump's vice president, J.D. Vance, about ignoring Supreme Court decisions, posing a significant challenge to the court's future authority.The path forward for American democracy is fraught with challenges. Our discussion underscores the collective responsibility to defend democratic institutions, emphasizing that this duty extends beyond judges and politicians to each and every citizen. With the world watching, we weigh the potential consequences of ignoring warning signs of political decay, urging listeners to consider their stance in this pivotal moment. How will history judge our actions during this critical time for democracy?-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textThe second annual Few of Our Favorite Things episode has arrived! Friend of the Pod Justin Hentges returns, and we share personal stories and reflections on our cherished books, movies, music, and experiences from the past year. We aren't just highlighting new releases, but the gems that have brought us joy and comfort regardless of their release date. We also bring you a heartwarming Christmas story with Santa and magical snow globes, spreading hope and resilience to those feeling vulnerable in this uncertain times. From Ronan Farrow's gripping "Catch and Kill" to Emmanuel Carrère's poignant "V13: Chronicle of a Trial," we discuss the year's most impactful books that have left us contemplating the dark corners of media and politics. We also explore the intriguing connections between business, government, and personal stories through the insightful narratives in Naomi Oreskes and Eric Conway's "The Big Myth" and Viola Davis's powerful autobiography "Finding Me." And, we curl up with our favorite TV series like Rowan Atkinson's "Maigret" and the heartfelt "Heartstopper." These stories serve as a reminder of the importance of diverse perspectives in enriching our understanding of the world. Our conversation also takes some unexpected turns as we find joy in the children in our lives, and the sense of community that emerges during uncertain times. We reflect on the cultural impact across generations and the significance of empathy and compassion. As the holiday season approaches, we send you a heartfelt Happy Holidays! Related:Counterpoint Podcast-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textDeep Dive is on vacation this week, so we are re-running our most listened to After America episode. We'll be back next week with an all new holiday episode of Deep Dive.----Can Christian nationalism coexist with American democracy, or is it a threat to the very foundation of our nation? This episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of Mike Johnson's rise to Speaker of the House and how his Christian nationalist views are shaping the legislative landscape. We discuss the erosion of the separation of church and state, exploring how Johnson's leadership might be steering the country towards authoritarianism.We examine the historical intertwining of evangelicalism and conservative politics. From the televangelism boom driven by figures like Pat Robertson and James Dobson to the influential Moral Majority founded by Jerry Falwell, we trace the path that has aligned evangelical Christians with the Republican Party. We delve into the consequences of this alliance, from Reagan's judicial appointments to the overwhelming support for Donald Trump, illustrating how a desire for traditional values has paved the way for more authoritarian leadership.Finally, we discuss the rise of militant Christian nationalism and its alarming impact on American society. We dissect the process of online radicalization, the normalization of extremist rhetoric, and the unsettling intersection of Christianity and right-wing extremism. We also examine the broader implications, including mass deportations and the undermining of democratic institutions. Guests: Dr. Bernard Schlager, Dr. David Gushee, Dr. Tara Grove, Dr. Alice Marwick, Dr. Shalu Nigam Credits:Infados - Kevin MacLeodDark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from PixabayRelated:Counterpoint Podcast-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textDr. Rachel Blum, an expert on political parties and factions, and author of the book How the Tea Party Captured the GOP: Insurgent Factions in American Politics, joins the pod to explore a bold transformation within the Republican Party. Can the rise of the MAGA movement be understood as a mere political shift, or does it signify a deeper change in American democracy? We discuss the movement’s historical lineage, from Barry Goldwater’s conservatism to its contemporary manifestations, and consider its profound implications on the GOP’s future and the broader democratic landscape.Donald Trump’s indelible impact on American politics is undeniable, and we discuss the fascinating trajectory that has seen traditional Republican elites ousted in favor of a new MAGA-aligned core. What are the social and political repercussions of Trump's enduring influence, and how has his rhetoric redefined what is politically acceptable? We examine the psychological loyalty Trump inspires in his base, the dynamics of conservative Christian support, and the Democrats’ ongoing struggle to resonate with some Americans amid a fragmented media landscape.Finally, we discuss with threats to democratic norms, including erosion of trust in election integrity and heightened polarization, posed by the MAGA movement. From potential authoritarian tendencies in a second Trump term to the Democrats’ strategic response to evolving identity politics, we consider how these factors might reshape America’s political future. Related:Counterpoint Podcast-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textWhat drives the deepening political divide in rural America? In this episode, Dr. Nicholas Jacobs from Colby College, and co-author of the book The Rural Voter: The Politics of Place and the Disuniting of America discusses the cultural and economic threads that intertwine to bolster Donald Trump's appeal among rural voters. We examine the evolution of historically Democratic regions as they increasingly align with Republican ideologies, challenging the conventional narrative of rural resentment and highlighting the unique stories and perceptions that have taken hold.We look at preliminary data from the 2024 election showing how demographic shifts, including a surge of first-time Latino Trump voters, are shaking up traditional voting patterns in rural areas. We discuss Kamala Harris's struggles to resonate with rural voters in key swing states, analyzing how the Democratic Party's approach may have missed the mark in addressing their core concerns. We also talk about the longstanding trends that have cemented Republican loyalty among non-college-educated and working-class voters.Finally, we unpack why rural voters might support Democratic policies but balk at Democratic candidates. From the effectiveness of federal programs to the disillusionment with long-celebrated reforms like the Affordable Care Act, we explore the disconnect between political accomplishments and voter expectations. We close by discussing the broader implications of this urban-rural divide on the future of American democracy and how both Bernie Sanders and Trump have tapped into the sentiment of a broken system.Related:Counterpoint Podcast-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textIf some of the last 2024 presidential election polls were pointing to a decisive Kamala Harris win, then why did it become clear so early in the evening that Harris would, in fact, lose? Were the polls wrong...again? In this episode, Dr. W. Joseph Campbell discusses how polls work, the history of polling errors, and why it matters. He also takes on Selzer's Iowa poll that showed Kamala Harris's unexpected surge in Iowa days before the election, only for Donald Trump to secure a decisive win, echoing the shockwaves of 2016. We dissect the historical miscalculations that have shaped voter trust and question whether inherent biases, flawed methodologies, or media narratives are distorting the truth.Harry Truman's stunning 1948 victory and the unexpected triumph of Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton in 2016 are some examples of polling error that we discuss. These moments show how fragile the balance is between the pursuit of precision in polling and the pillars of free speech. We talk about how these errors have an impact on voter engagement and democratic processes, and how challenging it is to read and engage with potentially faulty polls in an entrenched electoral culture.Finally, we discuss the reasons why Trump's support has historically been underestimated and the implications for media narratives in shaping electoral momentum. Polling is an art and a science. It's not going away, so we should temper our expectations. Recommended: Lost in a Gallup: Polling Failure in U.S. Presidential ElectionsBetter But Not StellarPolls Were Largely Accurate in Anticipating Trump-Harris RaceRelated:Counterpoint Podcast-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textCould the American system of checks and balances crumble under a second Trump presidency? In this episode Berkeley Law Professor Daniel Farber, co-director of the Edley Center on Law and Democracy, joins the pod to discuss the complexities of executive authority in the U.S. government. From emergency powers initially crafted for crisis management to the potential overreach encouraged by figures such as Mitch McConnell and Mike Johnson, we explore how these dynamics could fundamentally alter the balance of power established by the Constitution. We examine the constitutional framework intended to keep presidential power in check, focusing on the evolving roles of Congress and the judiciary. And, we focus on how party loyalty often clashes with institutional accountability, and how mechanisms like congressional funding and public opinion serve as crucial, yet sometimes faltering, counterbalances to executive overreach. Through critical historical examples and current events, we examine the pressing need for strengthening these checks and balances to prevent authoritarian tendencies.In this episode, we also scrutinize the strategies presidents might employ to extend their influence through appointments and executive orders, challenging the Senate's advisory role. The ease with which democratic norms can be undermined by unchecked presidential actions raises significant concerns about the erosion of civil rights and the potential rise of authoritarianism. And, how the system might respond, and even fail, under the pressures of a President Trump determined to consolidate power. -------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textTrump has won. He has plans. Dr. Maria Cristina Garcia joins me for a deep dive into the intricacies of immigration policy and its far-reaching effects on American society. We discuss the disinformation clouding public perception and policy debates. Staring down a second Trump presidency, we reflect on historical mass deportations and the dire economic and social consequences that could follow.We discuss forced migration, driven by authoritarian regimes and climate change, with a focus on regions like Central America and small island states. These global challenges are not just far-off events—they have direct implications for American democracy and the political landscape. And we highlight the urgency for humane, effective immigration reforms, emphasizing the pivotal role of leadership in shaping public perception and policy. The evolving dynamics of Hispanic voter support for Trump is a particular point of interest, offering insights into shifting political alliances.In the broader context of democratic backsliding and the rise of authoritarianism, this episode emphasizes the necessity for international cooperation to tackle pressing global issues like migration and climate change. Wealthier nations need to set a precedent in policy evolution, addressing new challenges such as climate displacement and gender-based violence. Related: After America-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Send us a textWhat if state legislatures could override the popular vote, revolutionizing the American electoral system? What if Donald Trump contests each state election in bad faith? What if Trump demands Congress refuse to certify an election he lost? What if Trump wins and summons mobs into the streets as a show of force? And, how does the American electoral system allow for, even sometimes promote, this type of chaos? In this episode, Dr. Norman Williams, a distinguished law professor at Willamette University and expert on US election law, stops by to discuss the intricacies and vulnerabilities of the Electoral College, as well as other election laws and processes. We examine America's electoral mechanics and uncover why, despite its flaws, this system persists over a straightforward nationwide popular vote. Dr. Williams put the historical "misfires" of the Electoral College into some context, examining past elections where candidates secured the presidency without the popular vote, highlighting the significant political shifts these outcomes create.We also explore the potential for transformative reform, focusing on initiatives like the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which seeks to align the Electoral College with the popular will. And, we consider alternative reforms and the challenges of overcoming entrenched political interests that favor the status quo. With state voting systems and election laws intricately linked to partisanship and race, we discuss how these elements shape electoral dynamics, emphasizing the Supreme Court's complex role in distinguishing between race-based and partisan-based laws.Finally, we talk about the empowering act of voting and civic engagement. Understanding the weight of each vote becomes crucial in the face of restrictive election laws and voter purges. Highlighting the independent state legislature doctrine's potential impact, Dr. Williams and I reflect on its implications for federal elections and the enduring principles of democracy. Vote like democracy depends on it. -------------------------Follow Deep Dive:BlueskyYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock